What are the complications of COPD?
If you have COPD, you are at risk for complications, including:
- Heart problems: COPD can cause an irregular heartbeat (called arrhythmia) and heart failure.
- High blood pressure: COPD can cause high pressure in the vessels that bring blood to your lungs. This is called pulmonary hypertension.
- Respiratory infections: You are more likely to have frequent colds, the flu, or even pneumonia. These infections can make your symptoms worse or cause more lung damage. You should have a flu shot every year and talk to your doctor about whether you need a pneumonia shot. You are less likely to get flu or pneumonia if you have these shots.
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Written by familydoctor.org editorial staff